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RUGBY: Shoulder surgery confirmed for Bath's Ford

BATH head coach Mike Ford has confirmed that son George is to undergo shoulder surgery that will rule him out of England's summer tour to New Zealand.

Ford, who was destined to start the first Test against the All Blacks on June 7, played his final match of the season in tonight's Amlin Challenge Cup final against Northampton before having the operation.

It is hoped that by undergoing surgery now the 21-year-old, England's second choice fly-half behind Owen Farrell, will be fit to press his claim to a spot in Stuart Lancaster's World Cup squad.

"We took advice from the medics at both Bath and England," Mike Ford told Sky Sports News.accc

"It was decided that while he can get through this last game, he'll need an operation to start next season well.

"It's a big season with the World Cup coming, so it's the right decision for George.

"He was down for a couple of days but realised it's the best thing for him.

"The last thing he needs is for his shoulder to go early next season.

"It's right for him to have the operation straight after the final and get strong for next season."

NEWS FROM BATH'S AMLIN CHALLENGE CUP FINAL AGAINST NORTHAMPTON AT WILTSHIRETIMES.CO.UK/SPORT LATER